Conjunctivitis, commonly referred to as pink eye, is an inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is the thin, clear tissue that covers the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids.

One of the leading causes of conjunctivitis is a bacterial infection. Bacterial conjunctivitis can affect individuals of all ages, from children to adults. In this article, we will discuss the causes and symptoms of bacterial conjunctivitis in more detail.

Causes of Bacterial Conjunctivitis

Bacterial conjunctivitis is typically caused by several types of bacteria that infect the eye, including:

• Staphylococcus aureus
• Streptococcus pneumoniae
• Haemophilus influenzae
• Moraxella catarrhalis

These bacteria can spread through both direct and indirect contact. Direct contact with an infected person, such as shaking hands, or sharing items like towels, pillows, or eye makeup, can facilitate the transmission of bacteria. Additionally, touching your eyes with unwashed hands increases the likelihood of getting infected.

A contaminated environment, respiratory infections that spread to the eyes, and the use of unclean contact lenses can also elevate the risk of bacterial eye infections.

Symptoms of Bacterial Conjunctivitis

When the eyes are infected by bacteria, symptoms typically develop rapidly. The infection can affect one eye or both. Common signs and symptoms of bacterial conjunctivitis include:

• Redness and swelling in the eyes due to inflammation
• Thick yellow or green discharge that may cause the eyes to feel sticky, particularly upon waking up
• A sensation of itching, burning, or feeling like there's something foreign in the eye
• Swelling of the eyelids, which can make it difficult to open the eyes normally
• Blurred vision caused by discharge or fluid accumulation on the eyes
• Sensitivity to bright light, causing discomfort when exposed to sunlight or harsh lighting

What to Do If You Experience Symptoms of Bacterial Conjunctivitis

Since bacterial conjunctivitis is highly contagious, it is important to take specific steps to manage the condition and prevent it from spreading:

• Consult an eye doctor to receive a prescription for antibiotic eye drops or ointment. Never use eye drops without a doctor's approval, as inappropriate usage could worsen the condition or contribute to antibiotic resistance.
• Maintain good eye hygiene by washing your hands frequently and avoiding touching or rubbing your eyes.
• Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, pillows, or makeup. Items like pillows, sheets, and towels should be washed thoroughly if they come in contact with the infected eye.
• Apply warm compresses to help remove any dirt or crust that may accumulate on your eyelids.
• Do not use contact lenses while experiencing an infection, as this can exacerbate the condition.
• Follow the doctor's instructions and complete the full course of antibiotics, even if the symptoms start to improve.

As bacterial conjunctivitis is contagious, it’s important to limit close contact with others, especially in public places, workplaces, or schools, until the infection has fully cleared.

If the symptoms worsen or you experience intense eye pain, vision problems, or increased swelling, seek medical attention immediately. You can also use the health consultation feature on the Ai Care app, available on both the App Store and Play Store.

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